COVID-19 Update

March 15, 2020: Important COVID-19 update for University of Alberta employees and students.

15 March 2020

For all university employees and students:

Today, the Government of Alberta announced new measures for post-secondary institutions in the fight against the spread of COVID-19. Because of the most recent directions from Alberta’s Chief Medical Officer of Health, the University of Alberta is taking the following immediate actions:

ALL IN-PERSON CLASSES SUSPENDED (NEW INFO)

As you are aware, all in-person, online and alternate classes are suspended for Monday, March 16 for the preparation of remote delivery starting on Tuesday, March 17.

Please note: There is an important change to previous communications. As per the direction of the Chief Medical Officer of Health, NO in-person classes of any size can occur. There is no longer any possibility of an exception to remote delivery. Contact your Dean for more information if you previously expected an exception.

UNIVERSITY OPEN

Our campuses and residences will remain open in order to support our students and ongoing research. Library services will be limited to computer labs in Cameron Library (North Campus) only. Other options are currently being explored and more information will be forthcoming.

UNIVERSITY EMPLOYEES

Campus is open and regular operations continue. We recognize that the cancellation of K-12 classes and daycare closures may present an immediate problem for some employees. Those who are unable to come to campus tomorrow due to the lack of childcare should contact their supervisor to discuss options.

Employees who have been directed to self-isolate in accordance with Alberta Health Services guidelines but are not ill, or those that are medically at-risk (those who have medical conditions that place them at a higher risk), should also contact their supervisor to explore working from home or in a remote work environment.

RESEARCH

Research activities continue as usual. While in-person instruction is no longer permitted, students (graduate and undergraduates) and post-doctoral fellows can continue all research activities with social distancing protocols in place.

PROGRAM PLACEMENTS

Students currently engaged in school practicums and clinical placements should check their email for direct updates from your deans.

We will keep you apprised of the situation throughout the week on the U of A COVID website and with additional emails as needed.

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Please continue to check the U of A COVID-19 site regularly for information on the current status of our community and campuses: